The Elizabeth elements combined with the romance of the clothing makes Shakespeare a stageworthy reference point; Even moreso since Elizabeth was an avid supporter of theatre and Shakespeare's work. The 1998 film starring Gwyneth Paltrow and Joseph Fiennes highlights the Elizabethan references in the D&G collection with neck ruffs, lush fabrics and sheer romance.

The fabric of these beautiful dresses mirror the curtain and color scheme of the Paris Opera.

Soft satins, textured velvets, lace, ribbons and tassels all make for romantic designs.

The tufting of the fabric creates a plush appearance that reminds me of a luxurious opera house seat.

Wearable art: The fabric of this design resembles the ceiling of the ornately beautiful foyer in the Paris Opera.

Can't you imagine floating down the grand staircase in this elegant gown? Prince Charming would of course be waiting for you at the base of the stairs, ready to escort you to the opera.

The 2004 film starring Gerard Butler and Emmy Rossum brought the 1909 story of the Phantom and his love to the silver screen. Interestingly, the story was inspired by the real-life falling of the chandelier that tragically killed one person in 1896.

"Turn your face away from the garish light of day, turn your thoughts away from the cold, unfeeling light-and listen to the music of the night!" -The Phantom

The Paris Opera was built for the Emperor and Empress Eugenie in the 1860s in the Beaux Art style. The marble friezes, statues and luminescent chandeliers provide the perfect setting for the classic story of the Phantom as well as the D&G collection.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

The look of Audrey and her famous characterization of Holly Golightly are always in style, but now they are in the newest ad campaign for Chanel. Singer Lily Allen poses as Holly Golightly with her French twist, over-sized tiara, black glasses and an extra dose of chic.

The Chanel and Breakfast at Tiffany's combo would surely please both Coco and Audrey.

The ads also reference Coco's original style with details like the layered neck ruff and wrist details on the black suit.

The epitome of Chanel? Sass, class and the best LBD.

Like Chanel, Holly Golightly wears layers of pearls.

Along with good looks and great clothes, every woman must smell her best, including Marilyn Monroe.

The LBD, sophisticated coiffe, pearls and classic pumps are right in line with the Chanel look.

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

That's right, this Brit beauty was seen wearing one my new favorite things, a Swatch watch. You may remember a previous "Fashion meets Art" post talking about Matthew Langille's collaboration with Swatch to create 3 fun designs for the brand; well that's what Agyness was seen wearing last Friday of Fashion Week.

What I love about Agyness is her no rules approach to fashion. She might wear a cartoon watch like those from the Swatch line, some thrifted clothes or maybe a high-end designer piece. She wears what she wants, when she wants. That spirit is definitely something to be admired. Whether on the cover of international editions of Vogue or as the face of brand campaigns, Agyness always brings personality.

You never know what Agyness is going to wear. It can range from over-the-top to 80s to pure class. Who knows what will be next?

Her tendency to wear vintage pieces shows us all that style is what you make it. You don't need a label to look good...though she probably has many labels as a top model. But I like to think that it's her thrift and vintage pieces put together in new ways that make her look so fun and unique.

Her lanky legs, blonde pixie cut and British charm remind me of Twiggy.

Cheers to Agyness for her interesting style and no rules approach to fashion.

Monday, September 21, 2009

I love Anna Sui. She has a way of designing that balances beauty with an edge. There always seems to be a hint of attitude in her clothing that adds another level of interest to pretty prints, flowing fabrics and layers of accessories.

Her boho charm seems to be founded in the brand's connection to music, art and history. Though Anna Sui's fabrics and designs are quite recognizable, each season showcases a variety of influences.

I think Target's designer collaborations, with Alexander McQueen and now Anna Sui, are genius. Fashion we love from the runways has been made affordable and available to all fashionistas no matter their budget. And to top this collaboration off, Target has been doing an amazing ad campaign pairing Anna Sui designs with Gossip Girl. I love it!

So in honor of Anna Sui's line at Target, here's a look at her runway inspirations and some of my favorite Anna Sui looks.

Paul Poiret freed women from corsets and embraced a new style that used Orientalism, flowing fabrics and decadent prints.

Military-esque. Don't you just love the amazing boots?! Fall 2006.

More great boots, colors and textures from Fall 2006.

This is one of my favorite collections. It's frilly and edgy all at the same time. Can you imagine Marie Antoinette at a New York Dolls concert? Apparently Anna can. Love it!

Tons of texture in Fall 2007. This collection was inspired by interior decor fabrics.

Spring 2008 channeled musicals and Biba designs.

Medieval romance makes an appearance with the dark color palette and connections to Pre-Raphaelite art.

During the Belle Epoque, "Beautiful Era," (from the late 19th century until WWI) Expressionist art became the new avant-garde.

And now a look at the new collection inspired by the bad and the beautiful Gossip Girl.

I think Gossip Girl and Anna Sui are a match made on Madison Avenue. Perfect!

Welcome to A Chichi Life

Search A Chichi Life

About Me

I created A Chichi Life as a creative outlet for me to explore fashion and its connection to art and history. I hope you find plenty of beauty and inspiration here, and of course a dash of chichi style.